Flying doesn’t have to be uncomfortable, even for the long flights. With the right preparation and essentials, these tips for staying comfortable on long flights can be easy and budget-friendly. Here’s everything you need to know about packing in-flight essentials, staying hydrated, and making the most of your journey—whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time international flyer.
1. Hydration Tips For Staying Comfortable On Long Flights
Although it may seem like a no-brainer, Dehydration is common on long flights due to the low humidity in airplane cabins. This can worsen fatigue and jet lag. Staying hydrated is essential to keeping energy levels up and reducing discomfort:
- Bring an empty, refillable water bottle: Fill it after passing through security to have water on hand throughout the flight
- Drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour: This helps counteract the dry cabin air.
- Add electrolytes if possible: Alternate water with electrolyte drinks to maintain your body’s mineral balance and avoid dehydration.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine: These can contribute to dehydration and should be limited or avoided
*Collapsable Water Bottles Are Best For Travel, The link to one can be found here*
2. Pack In-Flight Essentials for Comfort
Small Comforts can greatly affect how you feel during and after a flight. Consider packing a kit with items that enhance relaxation and reduce noise:
- Noise-canceling headphones: Block out background noise for better rest and entertainment.
- An eye mask and travel pillow: These help you sleep more comfortably, even in economy seating.
- Healthy snacks: Bring nuts, fruits, or protein bars to stay energized without relying solely on airline meals.
- Personal care items: Pack items like lip balm, hand lotion, and face mist to prevent your skin from drying out
*Here is the link for a travel-friendly Backpack/Kit*
3. Manage Jet Lag Before and During Your Flight
Jet lag can make it harder to adjust to new time zones, but with some preparation, you can minimize the effects of jet lag:
- Gradually adjust your sleep schedule: A few days before your trip, try to align your sleep patterns with your destination’s time zone.
- Set your watch to local time: Do this when you board to mentally adjust and start adopting the new time zone.
- Create a restful environment: Use an eye mask and earplugs if flying overnight to block out light and noise.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol: These can disrupt your sleep quality and worsen jet lag
4. Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) with Movement
Extended sitting can lead to blood clots, so moving regularly is crucial on long flights to keep your circulation flowing. With the cabin of an airplane being a compact area, obviously you can’t walk around as much as you might like. Hopefully, these tips can help with getting the circulation flowing:
- Wear compression socks: These improve blood flow and can reduce ankle swelling.
- Do seated stretches and ankle rotations: If you’re unable to get up, move your legs and rotate your ankles in your seat.
- Walk the aisle every hour: Moving when possible reduces the risk of DVT and keeps circulation flowing
*Here is a link for CopperJoint Circulation Socks*
5. Download Entertainment and Work To Stay Busy Ahead Of Time
Having offline content and activities ready will keep you entertained and productive without relying on in-flight Wi-Fi.
- Download movies, music, and audiobooks: This gives you options for entertainment without relying on in-flight Wi-Fi.
- Bring a journal or book: Sometimes, screen-free entertainment helps reduce fatigue and keeps your mind occupied.
- Pack a portable charger: Ensure your devices remain powered up throughout the flight for uninterrupted access
*Here’s a link for a long-lasting portable charging bank for all your traveling needs*
6. Prepare Your Body Pre-Flight
Getting your body ready for a long flight can significantly improve comfort and circulation, making the journey more enjoyable. The day before your trips, try some of the following tips to prepare your body and stay comfortable:
Do Light Exercise: Aim for a moderate workout, like a mellow walk or light yoga, to improve blood flow and prevent stiffness.
Stretch to Reduce Tension: Focus on stretches for your legs, lower back, and neck to reduce the chance of cramping or discomfort during the flight.
Stay Hydrated: Start drinking plenty of water the day before your flight to keep your body hydrated and reduce dehydration risks during the flight.
Eat a Balanced Meal: Choose foods rich in lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables to fuel your body and prevent fatigue.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Being well-rested before flying helps prevent irritability and fatigue, making staying comfortable on the plane easier.
With these tips for staying comfortable on long flights, you’ll be prepared to make the most of your journey, arriving refreshed and ready for more adventure. For more travel tips and tricks, be sure to check out Backpackers Playbook for all your traveling needs.